Prior to 1984 there was no rule or precedent requiring a senator to vote from his or her desk, although this practice had been used on occasion. In 1984, S.Res. 480 passed the Senate, establishing this requirement by standing rule. Although this requirement has been in place since 1984, senators typically do not vote from their seats. On certain occasions, however, the majority leader has requested senators to follow this order, because it provided for a quick or orderly vote, or because of the symbolic importance of the vote.

As part of a vote-arama on S.Con.Res. 8, the Budget Resolution, conducted on the legislative day of March 22, senators were requested to take their seats and vote from their desks. This request came around 3:00 a.m. on March 23.

Dec 4, 2012

Vote on Resolution of Ratification to the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. (Treaty Doc.: 112-7)

May 3, 2011

Vote on S.Res.159, a resolution commending troops and intelligence community for killing of Osama Bin Laden.

S.Res. 292, a resolution to express support for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sep 14, 2001

S.1426, a bill making emergency supplemental appropriations for additional disaster assistance, for anti-terrorism initiatives, and for assistance in the recovery from the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001.

Sep 12, 2001

S.J.Res. 22, a joint resolution expressing the sense of the Senate and House of Representatives regarding the terrorist attacks launched against the United States on September 11, 2001.

Feb 12, 1999

Vote on articles of impeachment against President William Clinton. (H.Res. 611)